Probably it was typographical error, but the misspelling (Shenk's) of Schenk's Branch in On the Block ["Close and classy: A tree-top cottage right downtown," September 13] prompted me to send in a brief note on the history of the name.  

Cornelius Schenk came to Charlottesville shortly after the Revolutionary War and bought land immediately west of what is now downtown. With a partner, he set up a general merchandising business. He and other partners also established a tannery in the southern part of town.

 A little later, he bought land to the north and northwest of downtown. The latter property had a stream that flowed into Meadow Creek. That stream became known as Schenk's Branch. Much of its upper end is now contained in culverts that carry it under the area of the County Office Building and parking lot.  

The new Schenk's Branch Trail and clean-up project are welcome additions to the area. Schenk is pronounced "skehnk," although you often hear it pronounced "skank" instead.

 David Miller
Nellysford

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